Obi Clutch Purse

Round daisy-like flower floats in violet between curved gold borders

This is a clutch purse made from obi kimono silk. An obi is the wide sash worn with a Japanese kimono, and it is usually woven or embroidered with patterns that are among the most elaborate on the garment. Hexagon-patterned bands curve along both sides. A purple clutch with a rounded, many-petalled gold flower centered on the flap, ringed with a small hub. A bottom edge shows scraps of further pattern beneath the fold. It is 11.25 inches long, 3.25 deep and 8.5 high.

Cheerful, symmetrical, and unwilling to apologize for gold.